The simple inherit follyThe term "simple" in this context refers to those who are naive or lack discernment. In biblical literature, simplicity often denotes a lack of wisdom or understanding, which can lead to poor decision-making. This phrase suggests that folly, or foolishness, is the natural outcome for those who do not seek wisdom. The concept of inheritance implies that folly is not just a temporary state but a lasting condition that is passed down or acquired over time. This aligns with the biblical theme that wisdom must be actively pursued (
Proverbs 2:1-6) and that neglecting it leads to negative consequences (
Proverbs 1:32).
but the prudent are crowned with knowledge
The "prudent" are those who exercise good judgment and foresight. In the biblical context, prudence is often associated with wisdom and the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 9:10). Being "crowned with knowledge" suggests that knowledge is not only a reward but also a mark of honor and authority. This imagery of a crown indicates that knowledge elevates and distinguishes the prudent, much like a crown distinguishes a king. The connection between wisdom and honor is a recurring theme in Proverbs (Proverbs 3:35). This phrase also echoes the biblical principle that those who seek and apply wisdom will be blessed and honored (Proverbs 8:12-21).
Persons / Places / Events
1.
The SimpleIn the context of Proverbs, "the simple" refers to those who are naive or lacking in judgment. They are often depicted as individuals who are easily led astray due to their lack of wisdom and discernment.
2.
The PrudentThis term describes those who are wise, discerning, and able to make sound judgments. The prudent person is characterized by their ability to foresee potential outcomes and act accordingly.
3.
FollyFolly represents foolishness or a lack of good sense. In the book of Proverbs, folly is often contrasted with wisdom and is seen as the result of poor decision-making.
4.
KnowledgeIn this context, knowledge is not just intellectual understanding but also includes moral insight and the ability to live according to God's principles.
5.
Inheritance and CrowningThese terms symbolize the outcomes or rewards of one's life choices. Inheritance implies receiving something as a result of one's nature or actions, while crowning suggests honor and recognition for wise living.
Teaching Points
The Consequences of SimplicityBeing simple or naive can lead to inheriting folly. It's crucial to seek wisdom actively to avoid the pitfalls of poor judgment.
The Reward of PrudencePrudence leads to being "crowned with knowledge." This suggests that living wisely brings honor and recognition, both in this life and in the eyes of God.
The Importance of Seeking WisdomWisdom is not innate but must be sought after. Engaging with Scripture, prayer, and godly counsel are essential practices for gaining prudence.
The Role of DiscernmentDiscernment is a key aspect of prudence. It involves evaluating situations and making decisions that align with God's will.
Living with Eternal PerspectiveUnderstanding that our choices have eternal consequences can motivate us to pursue wisdom and avoid folly.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Proverbs 14:18?
2.How can we avoid being "crowned with folly" as described in Proverbs 14:18?
3.What does Proverbs 14:18 teach about the value of "knowledge"?
4.How does Proverbs 14:18 connect with James 1:5 on seeking wisdom?
5.What practical steps can increase our "knowledge" according to Proverbs 14:18?
6.How can Proverbs 14:18 guide our daily decision-making and spiritual growth?
7.What does Proverbs 14:18 mean by "foolishness" and "wisdom" in a modern context?
8.How does Proverbs 14:18 relate to the concept of spiritual maturity?
9.What historical context influenced the writing of Proverbs 14:18?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 14?
11.What defines sensationalism in media?
12.Proverbs 9:13-18 presents Folly as another woman calling out to the naive. Why rely on personification instead of providing concrete historical or scientific validations for these moral teachings?
13.Why would Moses need leadership advice from a non-Israelite (Exodus 18:13-26) after direct guidance from God elsewhere in Exodus?
14.What does the Bible say about fools?What Does Proverbs 14:18 Mean
The simpleProverbs 14:18 opens with, “The simple.” In Scripture, the “simple” are not merely inexperienced; they are willingly naïve, easily led astray, and disinterested in discernment.Proverbs 1:4 says wisdom is given “to give prudence to the simple,” showing they start without it. Other snapshots:
•Proverbs 7:7 pictures the simple wandering near temptation without caution.
•Proverbs 22:3 notes that “the prudent see danger and hide, but the simple keep going and suffer for it.”
The simple person’s heart is open—but open in the wrong way, lacking filters that come from fearing the LORD (Proverbs 1:7).
inherit follyThe verse continues: “inherit folly.” Inheritances are lasting and usually welcomed, yet here the simple receive a legacy that harms. Instead of wisdom becoming their portion, foolishness settles on them like family property:
•Proverbs 3:35 contrasts this outcome: “The wise inherit honor, but fools are held up to shame.”
•Proverbs 13:20 warns that a companion of fools “will suffer harm,” reinforcing that folly isn’t momentary—it sticks.
What they passively accept today becomes what dominates tomorrow.
but the prudentA sharp contrast follows: “but the prudent.” The prudent actively think ahead, weigh consequences, and practice self-restraint. Snapshot scriptures underline that habit:
•Proverbs 12:23, “A prudent man keeps his knowledge to himself.”
•Proverbs 13:16, “Every prudent man acts with knowledge.”
• Jesus commends this mindset inMatthew 10:16, telling disciples to be “wise as serpents.”
Prudence is practical wisdom in motion, a continual choice to live alert before God.
are crowned with knowledgeThe reward imagery shifts from inheriting to crowning: “are crowned with knowledge.” Knowledge here is more than information—it is God-honoring insight adorning the life. Other passages echo the crown picture:
•Proverbs 4:7-9 promises that embracing wisdom “she will place on your head a garland of grace; she will present you with a crown of beauty.”
•James 1:12 links steadfast faithfulness to receiving “the crown of life.”
Instead of passively receiving folly, the prudent actively seek truth and are publicly honored for it; knowledge rests on them like a visible diadem.
summaryProverbs 14:18 draws a vivid line down the middle of life’s road. Those who drift through life unguarded end up owning folly as their inheritance. Those who walk thoughtfully under God’s instruction gain a crown—an outward mark—of true knowledge. The verse invites each reader to move from careless simplicity to purposeful prudence, trading the shame of folly for the honor that comes with God-given understanding.
(18)
The simple inherit folly.--As weeds spring up in unoccupied soil, so "simple" (
Proverbs 1:22) persons, whose minds are unoccupied with good, often become self-willed; while the knowledge which the "prudent" gain by looking well to their steps (
Proverbs 14:15) adorns them as a crown.
Verse 18. -
The simple inherit folly. The credulous simpleton naturally falls into possession of folly, feeds upon it, and enjoys it. The LXX. regards the simple as communicating their folly to others, and translates, "Fools will divide malice." But the prudent are crowned with knowledge; put on knowledge as a crown of glory, in accordance with the Stoic saying, quoted in the 'Speaker's Commentary,' "The wise is the only king." Nowack thinks the above translation and the idea alike belong to later times, and prefers to render, "The prudent embrace knowledge," which is parallel to the sentiment of ver. 6. The word is found only in
Psalm 142:8, where it is translated either "shall compass me about" or "crown themselves through me." The Vulgate has
expectabunt, i.e. "wait for it patiently," as the fruit of labour and perseverance. Septuagint, "The wise shall get possession of (
κρατήσουσιν) knowledge."
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
The simpleפְתָאיִ֣ם(p̄ə·ṯā·yim)Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 6612:Simple, perhaps open-mindedinheritנָחֲל֣וּ(nā·ḥă·lū)Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person common plural
Strong's 5157:To inherit, to occupy, to bequeath, distribute, instatefolly,אִוֶּ֑לֶת(’iw·we·leṯ)Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 200:Sillinessbut the prudentוַֽ֝עֲרוּמִ֗ים(wa·‘ă·rū·mîm)Conjunctive waw | Adjective - masculine plural
Strong's 6175:Crafty, shrewd, sensibleare crownedיַכְתִּ֥רוּ(yaḵ·ti·rū)Verb - Hifil - Imperfect - third person masculine plural
Strong's 3803:To enclose, to crown, to besiege, to waitwith knowledge.דָֽעַת׃(ḏā·‘aṯ)Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 1847:Knowledge
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OT Poetry: Proverbs 14:18 The simple inherit folly but the prudent (Prov. Pro Pr) 
